Panel maintenance system

ABSTRACT

Generally, a panel maintenance system including a panel maintenance assembly configured to move over a plurality of panel modules. Specifically, a panel module including a first frame including a first plurality of frame members joined to enclose a first panel. The first plurality of frame members including a first frame inner side configured to capture the first panel within the first frame and a first frame outer side configured to provide a first track axially extending between first and second ends of at least one of the first plurality of frame members. The first track configured to engage a drive element of a panel maintenance assembly which operates to move the panel maintenance assembly over the first panel. The panel maintenance assembly bears one or more components which function to maintain the first panel.

I. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

A panel maintenance system including a panel maintenance assemblyconfigured to move over a plurality of panel modules to remove foreignmatter from the panel face.

II. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

With the increase in solar and thermal collector efficiency and energyprices, and the corresponding growth in the collector industry, there isa demand for auxiliary products to maintain or increase the efficiencyof solar and thermal collectors. Several studies have shown thatmaintaining light transmissivity of solar and thermal collector panelsis necessary in most parts of the world to maintain the maximum outputefficiency of the collectors. The industry is quickly embracing morerigorous cleaning of the light transmissive panels of solar and thermalcollectors.

The World Academy of Science conducted a research project on the effectsof particulate on the performance of photovoltaic panels concluding that“[a]ccumulation of dust from the outdoor environment on the panels ofsolar photovoltaic (PV) system is natural. There were studies thatshowed that the accumulated dust can reduce the performance of solarpanels, but the results were not clearly quantified. The objective ofthis research was to study the effects of dust accumulation on theperformance of solar PV panels. Experiments were conducted using dustparticles on solar panels with a constant-power light source, todetermine the resulting electrical power generated and efficiency. Itwas found from the study that the accumulated dust on the surface ofphotovoltaic solar panel can reduce the system's efficiency by up to50%.”

An article from Scientific American regarding obstacles to utility-scalesolar projects in the dessert said the following: “For photovoltaics(PV), water is only needed to clean the panels, which brings up thesecond large problem with desert solar: dust. Solar panels and mirrorsneed to be cleaned almost daily if efficiencies are to stay where theyneed to be. Dust is not transparent, so even just one gram of dust persquare meter of solar panel area can reduce efficiency by around 40percent. At that rate, it doesn't take long in a dusty desert for theproblem to become intractable. In the desert near Abu Dhabi in theUnited Arab Emirates the Middle East's first large CSP plant recentlyfaced down the dust issue. In order to reach the 100-megawatt-capacitygoal of the Shams 1 plant, developers had to add substantially moremirrors to the plant than planned due to dust in the atmosphere . . .the plant probably ended up costing three times the initial estimate,thanks in part to dealing with that dust. And now that it is built,Shams 1 sends a series of trucks up and down the lines of 250,000mirrors every day, using robot arms to spray that precious water andclean away the dust.”

There would be an advantage in a panel module configured to include orincluding a panel maintenance assembly, that moved over the lighttransmissive panels to reduce the amount of foreign matter on the panelsurface and correspondingly increase the efficiency of the panel module.

III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can be toprovide a frame having an frame inner side configured to capture a lighttransmissive panel of a collector and having an outer side including atrack adapted to engage a panel maintenance assembly that moves over thelight transmissive panel or array of panels to remove or reduce foreignmatter on the light transmissive panel surface.

Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can beto provide a panel maintenance assembly which can be engaged to framehaving frame outer side including a track to move over the lighttransmissive panel or array of panels to remove or reduce foreign matteron the light transmissive panel surface.

Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can beto provide a frame having an frame inner side configured to capture alight transmissive panel of a collector and having an outer sideincluding a track engaging a panel maintenance assembly including atleast one blade or sweeper that contacts the light transmissive panel orarray of panels to remove or reduce foreign matter on the lighttransmissive panel surface as the a panel maintenance assembly movesalong the track.

Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can beto provide a frame having an frame inner side configured to capture alight transmissive panel of a collector and having an outer sideincluding a track engaging a panel maintenance assembly including atleast one blade or sweeper that contacts the light transmissive panel orarray of panels to remove or reduce foreign matter on the lighttransmissive panel surface as the a panel maintenance assembly movesalong the track.

Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can beto provide a frame having an frame inner side configured to capture alight transmissive panel of a collector and having an outer sideincluding a track engaging a panel maintenance assembly including atleast two blades or sweepers or combination thereof that contact thelight transmissive panel or array of panels to provide a blade boundedchannel in which an amount of fluid can pass to remove or reduce foreignmatter on the light transmissive panel surface as the a panelmaintenance assembly moves along the track.

Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can beto provide a frame having an frame inner side configured to capture alight transmissive panel of a collector and having an outer sideincluding a track engaging a panel maintenance assembly including afluid reservoir adapted to contain an amount of fluid and fluid pumpoperable to deliver an amount of fluid to the light transmissive panelsurface as the a panel maintenance assembly moves along the track.

Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can beto provide a frame having an frame inner side configured to capture alight transmissive panel of a collector and having an outer sideincluding a track engaging a panel maintenance assembly including aprocessor in communication with a memory element containing a panelmaintenance program executable convert a sensed amount of lighttransmissivity or amount of light reflectivity of the light transmissivepanel to a light transmissivity value or a light reflectivity valuewhich can be compared to one or more pre-selected light transmissivitythreshold values or light reflectivity threshold values to determine theamount of fluid to deliver to the light transmissive panel and extent ofmovement of the panel maintenance assembly over the light transmissivepanel.

Another broad object of particular embodiments of the invention can beto provide a panel maintenance assembly which moves over the lighttransmissive panel to dock with a docking station to couple matableportions of a fluid supply connector or a power supply connector tosupply an amount of fluid to a fluid reservoir or recharge arechargeable power source born by the a panel maintenance assembly.

Naturally, further objects of the invention are disclosed throughoutother areas of the specification, drawings, photographs, and claims.

IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a panel maintenancesystem.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective cutaway view of a corner of a panelmodule.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective cutaway view of a corner of a panelmodule.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of a corner of panel module.

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view 5-5 of FIG. 1 showing a panel having aplurality of layers.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a panel maintenancesystem for a solar photovoltaics panel including a cutaway showing theelements of an illustrative solar photovoltaics panel.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a panel maintenancesystem for a solar thermal collector panel including a cutaway showingthe elements of an illustrative solar thermal collector panel.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame outer sideconfigured to include a track which matably engages the drive elementsof a panel maintenance assembly.

FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view 9-9 of an embodiment of a frame outerside configured to include a track which matably engages the driveelements of a panel maintenance assembly.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame outer sideconfigured to include a track which matably engages the drive elementsof a panel maintenance assembly.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame outer sideconfigured to include a track which matably engages the drive elementsof a panel maintenance assembly.

FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view 12-12 of an embodiment of the outerframe side configured to include a track which matably engages the driveelements of a panel maintenance assembly.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame outer sideconfigured to include a track which matably engages the drive elementsof a panel maintenance assembly.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame outer sideconfigured to include a track which matably engages the drive elementsof a panel maintenance assembly further including an embodiment of aflexible track cover.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame outer sideconfigured to include a track which matably engages the drive elementsof a panel maintenance assembly further including an embodiment of aflexible track cover.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame outer sideconfigured to include a track which matably engages the drive elementsof a panel maintenance assembly including a sweeper.

FIG. 17 is a top plan view of an embodiment of a panel maintenanceassembly.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged portion of the top plan view shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a bottom plan view of an embodiment of a panel maintenanceassembly.

FIG. 20 is a first side elevation view of an embodiment of a panelmaintenance assembly matably coupled to a panel module.

FIG. 21 is a second side elevation view of an embodiment of a panelmaintenance assembly matably coupled to a panel module.

FIG. 22 is a first end elevation view of an embodiment of a panelmaintenance assembly.

FIG. 23 is a second end elevation view of an embodiment of a panelmaintenance assembly.

FIG. 24 is cross sectional view 24-24 of a first side elevation view ofan embodiment of a panel maintenance assembly matably coupled to a panelmodule as shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 25 is cross sectional view 25-25 of a first side elevation view ofan embodiment of a panel maintenance assembly matably coupled to a panelmodule as shown in FIG. 19.

FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view 26-26 of a fluid outlet as shown inFIG. 20.

FIG. 27 is a cross sectional view 27-27 of a fluid outlet as shown inFIG. 21.

V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Generally, a panel maintenance system including a panel maintenance (1)assembly configured to move over a plurality of panel modules (2).Specifically, a panel module (2) can but need not necessarily, include afirst frame (6) including a first plurality of frame members (7) joinedto enclose a first panel (8). The first plurality of frame members (7)including a first frame inner side (14) configured to capture the firstpanel (8) within the first frame (6) and a first frame outer side (15)configured to provide a first track (39) axially extending between framemember first and second ends (10)(11) of at least one of the firstplurality of frame members (7). The first track (39) configured toengage a drive element (75) of a carriage (52) which operates to movethe carriage (52) over the first panel (8). The carriage (52) can, butneed not necessarily, bear one or more components which function tomaintain the first panel (8).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1 which provides a general overview of apanel maintenance system (1) including one or more of: a panel module(2), a panel maintenance assembly (3) configured to move over the panelmodule (2), and a docking station (4) which interfaces with the panelmaintenance assembly (3). A first panel module (5) can include a firstframe (6) including a first plurality of frame members (7) joined tocapture a first panel (8). As to particular embodiments, each of thefirst plurality of frame members (7) can have a frame member length (9)disposed between frame member first and second ends (10)(11).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 1 through 4, the frame member first andsecond ends (10)(11) can be configured to be directly joined orindirectly joined by mechanical fasteners (12) or made as one-piece, toprovide a rectangular frame (13). However, the example of a firstplurality of frame members (7) joined to form a rectangular frame (13)is not intended to preclude a first plurality of frame members (7)formed or fabricated as one-piece or joined to form a first frame (6)having any one of a wide variety of configurations, including asexamples: square, rectangle, triangle, circle, oval, elliptical orotherwise configured for capturing a first panel (8).

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 2 through 5, the first plurality offrame members (7) can have a first frame inner side (14) opposite afirst frame outer side (15). The first frame inner side (14) can beconfigured to capture the first panel (8) within the first frame (6). Asshown in the examples of FIGS. 2 and 3, an embodiment of the first frameinner side (14) can be configured to provide a panel channel (18) havinga panel channel base (19) which disposes in opposed relation a distanceapart a pair of panel channel sides (20)(21) which fixedly or releasablyreceive the panel margins (22) of a first panel (8). As shown in FIG. 5,a second illustrative example includes a first frame inner side (14)configured as a flange (23) to which the first panel (8) directly orindirectly couples whether by mechanical fasteners, adhesive, or thelike. However, these illustrative examples are not intended to precludethe first frame inner side (14) from being configured in any mannerwhich allows the first panel (8) to be captured in fixed relation to thefirst frame (6).

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 2 through 5, a first panel (8) caninclude a panel first side (24) and a panel second side (25) joined inopposed relation a thickness apart by a peripheral edge (26).Embodiments of the first panel (8) can, but need not necessarily,include flat or substantially flat panel first and second sides (24)(25)joined in parallel opposed relation a thickness apart by a peripheraledge (26)(as shown in the examples of FIGS. 2, 3 and 5). The peripheraledge (26) can bound a first panel (8) configured to have the panelmargins (22) captured by a first frame (6). However, the example of afirst panel (8) having flat panel first and second sides (24)(25) doesnot preclude embodiments in which neither or only one of the panel firstor second sides (24)(25) is flat and one or both of the panel first orsecond sides (24)(25) can be arcuate in one or more directions. Thefirst panel (8) can, but need not necessarily, be made of or contain alight transmissive material (27), such as glass or plastic.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 2 through 7, a first panel (8) caninclude only one panel layer (28)(as shown in the example of FIGS. 2through 4) or can include a plurality of panel layers (29) between thepanel first side (24) and the panel second side (25)(as shown in theexample of FIG. 5). The plurality of panel layers (29) can, but need notnecessarily, be made of the same material or perform the same function.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 6 and 7, as to particular embodiments,the first panel module (2) can, but need not necessarily, be a solarphotovoltaics panel (30) (as shown in the example of FIG. 6) which caninclude: a p-type silicone layer (31), a depletion layer (32), an n-typesilicon layer (33), and a light transmissive layer (34). As toparticular embodiments, the first panel module (2), can but need notnecessarily, be a solar thermal collector panel (35) which can include:an insulation layer (36), an absorber layer (37), flow tubes (38), and alight transmissive layer (34).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 8 through 11, the first frame outerside (15) can be configured to include a first track (39) extendingbetween frame member first and second ends (10)(11) of at least one ofthe first plurality of frame members (7). As to particular embodiments,the first track (39) can include a pair of tracks (40)(41) extendingbetween corresponding frame member first and second ends (10)(11) of apair of the plurality of frame members (42)(43) disposed in opposedrelation in the first frame (6)(as shown in the example of FIG. 1).Typically, the first track (39) or the pair of tracks (40)(41)continuously axially extend along the entire distance between the framemember first and second ends (10)(11)(as shown in the example of FIG.1); however, these illustrative examples are not intended to precludeembodiments in which the first track (39) or pair of tracks (40)(41)extend between frame member first and second ends (10)(11) but terminatea distance from one or both of the frame member first or second ends(10)(11) or are not continuous, but rather discontinuous or periodicallyinterrupted or made of a plurality of spaced apart first track segmentsalong the frame member length (9). Moreover, while the embodimentsillustrated show the first track (39) or pair of tracks (40)(41)disposed on or in the first frame outer side edge (16), this is notintended to preclude embodiments having the first track (39) or a pairof tracks (40)(41) disposed on or in the first frame outer side face(17).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 8 through 10, as to particularembodiments, the first track (39) can, but need not necessarily include,a channel element (44) disposed in the first frame outer side (15). Thechannel element (44) can have a pair of channel side walls (45)(46)joined in spaced apart relation by a channel base (19).

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, particular embodiments of the first track(39) can, but need not necessarily, include a rail (48) coupled to thefirst frame outer side (15). The rail (48) can have a pair of railsidewalls (49)(50) projecting from the first frame outer side (15)joined in spaced apart relation by a rail top (51).

Now referring to FIGS. 8 through 27, the panel maintenance system (1)can, but need not necessarily, further include a panel maintenanceassembly (3) configured to move over the first panel module (5) or aplurality of panel modules (2) as shown in the example of FIG. 1.Embodiments of the panel maintenance assembly (3) can include a carriage(52) having a carriage length (53) disposed between carriage first andsecond ends (54)(55) at least one of which can, but need notnecessarily, include a tracking element (56) configured to movablyengage, or be moveably engaged, with the first track (39) to directionalguide the carriage (52) over one or more panel modules (2). As toparticular embodiments, each of the carriage first and second ends(54)(55) can corresponding include a tracking element (56) configured tomovably engage, or be movably engaged, with a pair of first tracks(40)(41) extending between corresponding frame member first and secondends (10)(11) of a pair of the plurality of frame members (42)(43)disposed in opposed relation in the first frame (6)(as shown in theexamples of FIGS. 1, 20 and 21). As to particular embodiments, each ofthe carriage first and second ends (54)(55) can include a pair oftracking elements (57)(58) each pair configured to movably engage or bemovably engaged with a corresponding pair of tracks (40)(41) extendingbetween corresponding frame member first and second ends (10)(11) of apair of the plurality of frame members (42)(43) disposed in opposedrelation in the first frame (6).

Now referring primarily to the illustrative example of FIGS. 8 through10, the tracking element (56) can be a rotatable member (59) having apair of member sides (60) joined by a circumferential face (61). Therotatable member (59) can be configured to be received in the channelelement (44) to engage the circumferential face (61) or one of pair ofmember sides (60) with one or more of the pair of channel side walls(45)(46) or the channel element base (47). Now referring to theillustrative example of FIGS. 11 and 12, the rotatable member (59) canfurther include an annular groove (62) disposed in the circumferentialface (61). The annular groove (62) can be configured to receive the rail(48) to engage a circumferential groove face (63) or one of a pair ofgroove side walls (64)(65) with one or more of the pair of railsidewalls (49)(50) or the rail top (51). However, these illustrativeexamples are not intended to preclude other configurations of thetracking element (56) which can be configured to engage the first frameouter side (15) to guide the carriage (52) over the first panel (8)captured by the first frame (6) along a path between an opposed secondpair of frame members (66)(67) of a first frame (6).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 13, the tracking element (56) canfurther include a plurality of guide members (68) coupled to thecarriage (52) proximate one or both of the carriage first and secondends (54)(55). The plurality of guide members (68) can concurrentlydiscretely engage the first frame outer side (15) or the first track(39), or a combination of the first frame outer side (15) and the firsttrack (39) to assist in disposing the carriage (52) in movable fixedrelation to the first frame (6). The plurality of guide members (68)includes a first pair of guide members (69) disposed a distance aparteach of which engages a channel inner surface (70) of one of the pair ofchannel side walls (45)(46) of the channel element (44) disposed in thefirst frame outer side (15) and a second pair of guide members (71)disposed a distance apart each which engages a channel outer surface(72) of one of the pair of channel sidewalls (45)(46) of the channel(39). One or a pair of tracking elements (57)(58) can be coupled to eachof the carriage first and second ends (54)(55) between correspondingfirst and second pairs of guide members (69)(71) to concurrently engagethe each of a pair of tracks (40)(41) correspondingly coupled to a firstpair of the plurality of frame members (42)(43) disposed in opposedrelation in the first frame (6).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 10 and 12, the first track (39) or thefirst pair of tracks (40)(41) can, but need not necessarily, include afirst plurality of teeth (73) projecting in spaced apart relation fromthe first track (39) or pair of tracks (40)(41). A second plurality ofteeth (74) can project in spaced apart relation from the correspondingtracking element (56) or a pair or pairs of tracking elements (57)(58).The first plurality of teeth (73) can matably engage the secondplurality of teeth (74). As shown in the example of FIG. 10, the firstplurality of teeth (73) can project in spaced apart relation from thechannel element base (47) and the second plurality of teeth (74) canproject in circumferentially spaced apart relation from thecircumferential face (61) of the rotatable member (59). The firstplurality of teeth (73) of the first track (39) can matably engage thesecond plurality of teeth (74) projecting from the circumferential face(61) of the rotatable member (59). As shown in the illustrative exampleof FIG. 12, the first plurality of teeth (73) can project in spacedapart relation from the rail top (51) and the second plurality of teeth(74) can project in circumferentially spaced apart relation from acircumferential face (61) or a circumferential groove face (63). Thefirst plurality of teeth (73) projecting from the rail top (51) canmatably engage the second plurality of teeth (74) projecting from thecircumferential groove face (63).

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 8 through 13, the carriage (52) can,but need not necessarily, further include a drive element (75)configured to engage or be engaged, with the first frame outer side(15). Operation of the drive element (75) results in movement of thecarriage (52) over the first panel (8) captured by the first frame (6)along a path between an opposed second pair of frame members (66)(67) ofa first frame (6). As to particular embodiments, the drive element (75)can be discrete from the tracking element (56) or the plurality of guidemembers (68) and operably engage the first frame outer side (15) to movethe carriage (52) over the first panel (8) captured in the first frame(6). As to particular embodiments, the drive element (75) can comprise arotatable member (59) having a pair of member sidewalls (60) joined by acircumferential face (61). Any one or more of the pair of rotatablemember sidewalls (60) or the circumferential face (61) can be engagedwith the first frame outer side (15) and upon rotation of the rotatablemember (59) the carriage (52) can move over the first panel (8) capturedin the first frame (6).

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 8 through 13, particular embodimentsof the carriage (52) can, but need not necessarily, include a driver(76) which operates to generate motion in the drive element (75) engagedto the first frame outer surface (17) to correspondingly move thecarriage over the first panel (8) captured in the first frame (6). As toother embodiments, the carriage (52) can lack a discrete drive element(75) and the driver (76) can operate to generate motion in one or moreof the tracking elements (56) to correspondingly move the carriage overthe first panel (8) captured in the first frame (6). As to particularembodiments, the driver (76) can comprise an electric motor (77) havinga shaft (78) which rotates to directly or indirectly cause rotation ofone or more of the tracking elements (56) engaged with the first track(39). As to the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the driver (76)comprises an electric motor (77) having a motor shaft (78) coaxiallyjoined to one of a pair of tracking elements (57)(58) to provide adriven tracking element (79) and an idler tracking element (80) engagedwith the first track (39). The driven tracking element (79) operable totransmit rotational force to the first track (39) sufficient to move thecarriage (52) over the first panel (8) captured in the first frame (6)while the idler tracking element (80) operates to guide the carriage(52) over the first panel (8) captured in the first frame (6). Anillustrative example of a driver (76) suitable for use with embodimentsof the invention can be a direct current motor made by Mabuchi, Part No.EM-400.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 14 and 15, a track cover (171) can beconfigured to in part or in whole cover the first track (39) to preventor reduce exposure of the track (39) and the tracking element (56) ordrive element (75) engaged to the first track (39) to foreign matter. Asto the particular embodiment shown in the example of FIG. 14, the trackcover (171) can include a resiliently flexible member (172) having acover length (173) disposed between cover ends (174) and a cover width(175) disposed between opposite first and second cover sides (176)(177).The first cover side (176) can be connected to the first frame (6) alongone side of first track (39) allowing the resiliently flexible member(172) to extend over the first track (39) to position the second coverside (177) against the first frame (6) along the other side of the firsttrack (39). The tracking element (56) or the drive element (75) engagedwith the first track (39) can correspondingly engage a portion of thetrack cover (171) causing that portion of the track cover to resilientlyflex moving the second cover side (177) away from the first frame (6).The second cover side (177) can return toward the first frame (6) as thetracking element (56) or drive element (75) disengages from that portionof the track cover (171).

As to the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the track cover (171)can include a pair of resiliently flexible cover members (178)(179) eachhaving a cover first side (180) connected to the first frame (6) onopposite sides of the first track (39). Each of the pair of resilientlyflexible cover members (178)(179) can extend outward to terminate inabutted or overlapping cover second sides (181)(182) to cover the firsttrack (39). The tracking element (56) or drive element (75) can bedisposed between a portion of the abutted or overlapped cover secondsides (181)(182) to resiliently flexibly deform the pair of resilientlyflexible cover members (178)(179) at that portion of the track cover(171). The cover second sides (181)(182) can return toward theoverlapped or abutted configuration upon disengagement of the trackingelement (56) or drive element (75).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 16 through 27, a first blade (81) can,but need not necessarily, be coupled to a first carriage face (82) ofthe carriage (52)(as shown in the example of FIGS. 19 and 26-27). Thecarriage (52) coupled to the first frame outer side (15), as abovedescribed, can move in relation to first panel (8) captured by the firstframe (6) while maintaining a substantially fixed distance between thefirst carriage face (82) and the opposing first panel face (83) of thefirst panel (8). The first blade (81) can extend from the first carriageface (82) to contact the first panel face (83) allowing the first blade(81) to wipe across the first panel face (83) as the carriage (52) movesover the first panel (8). The first blade (81) can, but need notnecessarily, be linear or substantially linear having a first bladelength (84) disposed between first blade first and second ends (85)(86).As to particular embodiments, each of the first blade (81) first andsecond ends (85)(86) can be disposed proximate the correspondingcarriage first and second ends (54)(55) such that the first blade (81)can, but need not necessarily, wipably contact the first panel face (83)between a pair of opposed frame members (42)(43).

A second blade (87) can, but need not necessarily, be coupled to thefirst carriage face (82). The second blade (87) can extend from thefirst carriage face (82) to contact the first panel face (83) allowingthe second blade (87) to wipe across the first panel face (83) as thecarriage (52) moves over the first panel (8). The second blade (87) can,but need not necessarily, be linear or substantially linear having asecond blade length (88) disposed between second blade (87) first andsecond ends (85)(86). As to particular embodiments, each of the secondblade first and second ends (85)(86) can be disposed proximate thecorresponding carriage first and second ends (54)(55) such that thesecond blade (87) can, but need not necessarily, wipably contact thefirst panel face (83) between a pair of opposed frame members (42)(43).The first and second blade (81)(87) can be disposed along a longitudinalaxis (89) of the first carriage face (82) a distance apart to allow eachof the first and second blades (81)(87) to wipably contact the firstpanel face (83) between opposed frame members (42)(43). The first andsecond blades (81)(87) coupled to the carriage first face (82) adistance apart defines a blade bounded passage (90) enclosed by contactof the first and second blades (81)(87) with the first panel face (83).

The first and second blades (81)(87) (or a plurality of blades eachcoupled to the carriage first face (82)) can be produced from a varietyof conventional elastomers to provide a sufficient amount of flexure towipingly engage the first panel face (83). The elastomers can, but neednot necessarily, include or consist of one or more of: general purposerubber such as silicone base rubber, natural rubber, chloroprene rubber,dimethyl silicone raw rubber, methyl vinyl silicone raw rubber, methylphenyl vinyl silicone raw rubber, fluorosilicone raw rubber, or thelike. As one illustrative example the first or second blade (81)(87) canbe similar to wipers by Bosch, Part No. 208820004 or by Watts Squeeges,2000 Series.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 17, 19 and 26, a fluid outlet (91) canbe disposed to deliver an amount of fluid (92) to the first panel face(83) wipingly engaged by the first blade or the second blade (81)(87)(or a plurality of blades) as the carriage moves over the first panel(8). As to particular embodiments, the fluid outlet (91) can, but neednot necessarily, be disposed to deliver an amount fluid (92) into theblade bounded passage (90) enclosed by contact of the first and secondblades (81)(87) with the first panel face (83). As to those embodimentsin which the first and second blades (81)(87) contact the first panelface (83) with the first and second blades (81)(87) having first andsecond ends (85)(86) corresponding disposed proximate opposed framemembers (44)(45), the amount of fluid (92) can flow in contact with thefirst panel face (83) within the blade bound passage (90) betweenopposite passage ends (93)(94).

The amount fluid (92) delivered to the first panel face (83) can be anytype of fluid compatible with the material(s) included in the firstpanel (8), first panel frame (6), panel maintenance assembly (3), ordocking station (4). As illustrative examples, the amount of fluid (92)can include or consist of one or more of: water, alcohol, denaturedalcohol, isopropanol, ethanol, methanol, mineral acids, hydrochloricacid, sulfuric acid, acetic acid, citric acid, sodium hydroxide,potassium hydroxide, sodium hypochlorite, ammonia, chelants, sodiumbicarbonate, tetrachlorethylene, carbon dioxide, trisodium phosphate,acetone, amyl nitrate, xylene, anionic detergent, ionic detergent,zwitterionic detergent, or the like.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 19, a passage first end cap (95) can,but need not necessarily, be mounted between the first and second blades(81)(87) and adjacent the carriage first face (82) and disposed adjacentthe first panel face (83) when the first and second blades (81)(87)contact the first panel face (83) to close or substantially reduce anopen area (96) of the blade bound passage (90) at a passage first end(97). The fluid outlet (91) can, but need not necessarily, be disposedin the first passage end cap (95) or in the carriage (52) to deliver theamount of fluid (92) into the blade bound passage (90). As to aparticular embodiment, the first passage end cap (95) can, but need notbe a flange (98) extending from the carriage first face (82) proximatethe carriage first end (54) toward the panel face (83). The first andsecond blade ends (85)(86) can abut the flange (98) to close orsubstantially reduce the open area of the blade bound passage (90) atthe passage first end (97).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 19, 25 and 27, a fluid collectionelement (99) can, but need not necessarily, be mounted between the firstand second blades (81)(87) and adjacent the carriage first face (82) anddisposed adjacent the first panel face (83) when the first and secondblades (81)(87) contact the first panel face (83) to close orsubstantially reduce the open area of the blade bounded passage (90) ata passage second end (100). The fluid collection element (99) can beconfigured as fluid collection container (101) having a container openend (102) facing toward the passage first end (97) of the blade boundedpassage (90). When the first and second blades (81)(87) engage the firstpanel face (83) a portion of the fluid collection container (101) cancontact the first panel face (83) between the first and second blades(81)(87). The portion of the fluid collection container (101) contactingthe first panel face (83) can resiliently flex to generate a sealagainst the first panel face (83) and to flex as the carriage (52) movesover irregularities in the first panel face (83) or in the first frame(6). An amount of fluid (92) delivered into the blade bounded passage(90) proximate the passage first end (97) can flow toward the passagesecond end (100). The amount of fluid (92) flowing through the bladebounded passage (90) can be captured in the fluid collection element(99) proximate the passage second end (100).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 17, 20, 24 and 25, a fluid reservoir(103) can, but need not necessarily, be coupled to the carriage (52).The fluid reservoir (103) can contain an amount of fluid (92). As toparticular embodiments, the fluid reservoir (103) can be mounted to acarriage second face (104) facing outward of the first panel face (83).The fluid outlet (91) can be can be fluidly coupled to the fluidreservoir (103) to allow the amount fluid (92) to flow from the fluidreservoir (103) to the fluid outlet (91). The fluid reservoir (103) can,but need not necessary, include a fluid supply connector (105) having afluid supply inlet and outlet ports (106)(107). An amount of fluid (92)can be introduced into the fluid reservoir (103) through the fluidsupply inlet (106) and overfill of the amount of fluid (92) can egressfrom the fluid supply outlet port (107).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 17, 20 and 21, a first fluid flowgenerator (108) can, but need not necessarily, be fluidly coupled to thefluid flow reservoir (103) and the fluid outlet (91). The first fluidflow generator (108) can operate to generate a flow of an amount offluid (92) from the fluid reservoir (103) to the fluid outlet (91) withsufficient fluid pressure for delivery from the fluid outlet (91) ontothe first panel face (83). As an illustrative example, the first fluidflow generator (108) can be a positive displacement pump (109) similarto Cole-Parmer, Part No. GO 79600-06.

Again referring to FIGS. 17, 20 and 21, a second fluid flow generator(110) can, but need not necessarily, be fluidly coupled to the fluidcollection element (99) and the fluid reservoir (103). The second fluidflow generator (110) can operate to generate a flow of the amount ofliquid (92) from the fluid collection element (99) to the fluidreservoir (103). As an illustrative example, the second fluid flowgenerator (110) can be similar to an ABS, Part No. 102EX1 DC12V DM-1BZ.

Now referring to FIGS. 24 and 27, a fluid filter (111) can, but need notnecessarily, be disposed between the fluid collection element (99) andthe second fluid generator (110) to remove particles (112) from thefirst amount of fluid (92) prior to delivery to the second fluidgenerator (110). As an illustrative example, the fluid filter (111) canbe similar to Norgren, Part No. 4LF-010-0000.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 16 and 19, a first sweeper (113) can,but need not necessarily, extend from the carriage first face (82) tocontact the first panel face (83). The first sweeper (113) can extend,in whole or in part, between the carriage first and second ends (54)(55)to sweep the first panel face (83). As to particular embodiments asecond sweeper (114) can, but need not necessarily, extend from thecarriage first face (82) to contact the first panel (8). The secondsweeper (114) can in whole or in part extend between the carriage firstand second ends (54)(55) to sweep the first panel face (83). The firstsweeper (113) or the second sweeper (114) can be disposed adjacent thefirst blade (81) or the second blade, or both whether inside the bladebounded passage (90) or outside the blade bounded passage (90). As shownin the illustrative example of FIG. 19, a first and second sweeper(113)(114) are correspondingly disposed adjacent a first blade (81) anda second blade (87) outside of the blade bound channel (18). Both of thefirst sweeper and second sweeper (113)(114) continuously extend betweenproximate the carriage first end (54) to proximate the carriage secondend (55). A sweeper (113)(114) suitable for use with embodiments of theinvention can be similar to Har-tru/Lee, Part No. 0100-136-3669.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 17 and 20, a rechargeable power source(115) can be coupled to the carriage (52). The rechargeable power source(115) can be electrically coupled to one or more of the driver (76), thefirst fluid flow generator (108), or the second fluid flow generator(110) to supply power to one or more of these or other components. As toparticular embodiments, the rechargeable power source (115) can be afive volt to twelve volt rechargeable battery (116). A rechargeablepower source (115) suitable for use with embodiments of the inventioncan be similar to Tenergy, Part No. 11245.

Now again referring primarily to FIGS. 1, 17 and 21, a carriage positionend limit sensor (117) can be coupled to the carriage (52) or the firstframe (6) to sense first and second end limits (118)(119) of carriage(52) movement across the first panel (8). As to particular embodiments,the carriage position end limit sensor (117) can include an end limitswitch (120) switchable from a first switch condition to a second switchcondition by manual pressure due to engagement with a first or secondend limit elements (121)(122) to electrically close or open a circuit toreverse direction of a drive element (75) or a driven tracker element(79). Removal of manual pressure can return the end limit switch (120)to the first switch condition. As to other embodiments, the carriageposition end limit sensor (117) can include an end limit switch (120)switchable from a first switch condition to a second switch condition bysensing an applied magnetic field (123) generated by the first or secondend limit elements (121)(122) to electrically close or open a circuit toreverse direction of a drive element (75) or a driven tracker element(79). These illustrative examples are not intended to preclude otherembodiments of the carriage position end limit sensor (117) capable ofgenerating reciprocal directional movement of the carriage (52) betweenthe first and second end limits (118)(119) over the first panel (8).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 1 and 24, a fluid level sensor (124)can, but need not necessarily, be fluidly coupled to the fluid reservoir(103). The fluid level sensor (124) can operate to sense a fluid level(125) of the amount of fluid (92) in the fluid reservoir (103). Anillustrative example, a fluid level sensor (124) similar to Uro, PartNo. 17137524812 can be used with embodiments of the invention.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 1 and 17, a light transmissivity sensor(126) or a light reflectivity sensor (127) can be coupled to thecarriage (52) to sense an amount of light transmissivity or an amount oflight reflectivity of the first panel (8). The light transmissivitysensor (126) can generate a light transmissivity signal (128) thatvaries based on amount of light transmissivity of the first panel (8) orthe light reflectivity sensor (127) can generate a light reflectivitysignal (129) that varies based on an amount of light reflected by thefirst panel (8). Each signal can be correspondingly transformed into alight transmissivity value (130) or a light reflectivity value (131)which can be compared to light transmissivity or light reflectivitythreshold values (145) to initiate one or more of: movement of thecarriage (52) over the first panel (8), delivery of an amount of fluid(92) from the fluid outlet (91) to the first panel (8), or operation ofthe first or second fluid flow generators (108)(110). As oneillustrative example, a light reflectivity sensor (127) suitable for usein embodiments of the invention can be similar to an Omron, Part No.#EE-SPY301. A light transmissivity sensor (126) suitable for use withembodiments of the invention can be an Autonics, Part No. BYD30-DDT-T.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 17 and 18, embodiments can but need notnecessarily include, a controller (132) including a processor (133)coupled to a memory element (134). The memory element (134) can containa panel maintenance program (135) executable to control movement of thecarriage (52) over the first panel (8). As to particular embodiments,the panel maintenance program (135) can be executed to control operationof the driver (76) to generate movement of the carriage (52) over thefirst panel (8) based on exceeding one or more threshold valuesincluding or consisting of: an elapsed time threshold value (141), afluid level threshold value (143), a light transmissivity thresholdvalue (144), a light reflectivity threshold value (145), a first lighttransmissivity threshold value (146), first light reflectivity thresholdvalue (147), a second light transmissivity threshold value (148), secondlight reflectivity threshold value (149), an energy level thresholdvalue (153) relating to one or a combination of: an elapsed amount oftime (136), an amount of light transmissivity (137) of the first panel(8), an amount of light reflectivity (138) of the first panel (8), anamount of energy (152) remaining in the rechargeable power source (115),or an amount of fluid (92) remaining in the fluid reservoir (103).

Accordingly, as to particular embodiments, the controller (132) canfurther include a timer (140) and the panel maintenance program (135)can be executed to periodically analyze an elapsed amount of time (136)from occurrence of the prior movement of the carriage (52) over thefirst panel (8). The panel maintenance program (135) can be furtherexecuted to compare the elapsed amount of time (136) from occurrence ofthe prior movement of the carriage (52) to an elapsed time thresholdvalue of (141) for carriage movement. Where the elapsed time thresholdvalue (141) for carriage movement has been exceeded, the panelmaintenance program (135) can be further executed to generate movementin the carriage (52) over the first panel (8). As to those embodimentsinclusive of sweepers (113)(114), movement of the carriage (52) resultsin sweepable engagement of the sweepers (113)(114) with the first panelface (83) to displace foreign matter ( ) such as: snow, rain, leaves,paper, particulates, or other debris from the first panel surface (83).

The panel maintenance program (135) can be further executed to comparethe elapsed amount of time (136) from occurrence of the prior operationof the first or second fluid flow generators (108)(110) to an elapsedtime threshold value of (141) for fluid delivery to the first panel (8).Where the elapsed time threshold value (141) for fluid delivery to thefirst panel (8) has been exceeded, the panel maintenance program (135)can further executed to operate the first or second fluid flowgenerators (108)(110) to deliver an amount of fluid (92) to the firstpanel face (83) and coordinate movement in the carriage (52) over thepanel ( ). As to those embodiments inclusive of a first or second blade(81)(87), delivery of an amount of fluid (92) to the first panel face(83) and movement of the carriage (52) results in wipable engagement ofthe first or second blades (81)(87) with the first panel face (83) todisplace the amount of fluid (92) delivered to the first panel face (83)and displace foreign matter ( ) such as: snow, rain, leaves, paper,particulates, or other debris from the first panel face (83).

The panel maintenance program (135) can be further executed tocontinuously or periodically analyze a fluid level signal (142) from afluid level sensor (124) to determine a fluid level (125) remaining inthe fluid reservoir (103). As to particular embodiments, the panelmaintenance program (135) can be further executed to compare the fluidlevel (125) to a fluid level threshold value (143), and where the fluidlevel threshold value (143) has been exceeded, prohibit delivery, orreduce the amount of fluid (92) delivered, from the fluid outlet (91)onto the first panel face (83).

The panel maintenance program (135) can be further executed tocontinuously or periodically analyze the light transmissivity signal(128) from the light transmissivity sensor (126) or light reflectivitysignal (129) from the light reflectivity sensor (127)(or both) todetermine a light transmissivity value (130) or light reflectivity value(131)) of the first panel (8). As to particular embodiments, the panelmaintenance program (135) can be further executed to compare the lighttransmissivity value (130) or the light reflectivity value (131) to oneor more a light transmissivity threshold value (144) or lightreflectivity threshold value (145), and for example, where a first lighttransmissivity threshold value (146) or first light reflectivitythreshold value (147) has been exceeded generate movement of thecarriage (52) to sweep the first panel face (83), and where a secondlight transmissivity threshold value (148) or second light reflectivitythreshold value (149) has been exceeded deliver an amount of fluid (92)onto the first panel face (83) coordinated with movement of the carriage(52) to wipably remove the amount of fluid (92) from the first panelface (83).

The panel maintenance program (135) can be further executed tocontinuously or periodically analyze an energy sensor signal (150) fromand energy level sensor (151) electrically coupled to the rechargeablebattery (116) to determine an energy level (152) remaining in therechargeable battery (116). As to particular embodiments, the panelmaintenance program (135) can be further executed to compare the energylevel value (152) to an energy level threshold value (153) and where theenergy level threshold value (153) has been exceeded prohibit or reducethe amount of movement of the carriage (52) or prohibit or reduce theamount of fluid (92) delivered from the fluid outlet (91) onto the firstpanel (8).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1, the panel maintenance system (1) can,but need not necessarily include, a docking station (4) which interfaceswith the panel maintenance assembly (3). As to particular embodiments,the docking station (4) can be disposed in relation to the first frame(6) to allow the carriage (52) to move over the first panel (8) and dockwith the docking station (4) to engage matable portions of the fluidsupply connector (105). As to particular embodiments, the fluidreservoir inlet and outlet ports (106)(107) of the fluid reservoir (103)can be configured to achieve an open condition (155) only upon matedengagement with the docking station inlet and outlet ports (156)(157).Separation of the fluid reservoir inlet and outlet ports (106)(107) andthe docking station inlet and outlet ports (156)(157) can achieve theclosed condition (158) of the fluid reservoir inlet and outlet ports(106)(107) and the docking station inlet and outlet ports (156)(157).Particular embodiments of the docking station (4) can further includematable portions of a power supply connector (159)(160) which matablyengage when the carriage (52) docks with the docking station.

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 1 and 18, the panel maintenanceprogram (135) can be further executed to continuously or periodicallyanalyze the fluid level (125) in the fluid reservoir (103) or the energylevel (152) remaining in power source (115) and based on comparison ofthe amount of fluid remaining in said fluid reservoir (103) or theamount of energy (139) remaining in the power source (115) to a fluidlevel threshold value (143) or an energy level threshold value (153) tocause the carriage (52) to dock with the docking station (4) to supplyan amount of fluid (92) or recharge the rechargeable power source (115).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 1 and 10, the panel maintenance system(1) can, but need not necessarily, include a second frame (163)including a second plurality of frame members (164) joined to enclose asecond panel (165). The second plurality of frame members (164) caninclude a second frame inner side (166) configured to capture the secondpanel (165) within said second frame (163) and a second frame outer side(167) configured to provide a second track (168) axially extendingbetween first and second ends (10)(11) of at least one of the secondplurality of frame members (164). The second track (168) can beconfigured as above explained to engage a tracking element (56) or adrive element (75) to move the carriage (52) over the second panel(165).

The term second frame (163) is intended to mean one additional frame ora plurality of frames depending upon the application. As to particularembodiments, the first and second frames (6)(163) can be disposed adistance apart (169) with said first and second tracks (39)(168) axiallyaligned but discontinuous between the first and second frames (6)(163).As to these embodiments, the drive element (75) can comprise a pair ofdrive elements (183)(184) coupled proximate carriage first and secondends (54)(55), as above described, to engage the first track (39) adistance apart sufficient to allow a first one of the pair of driveelements (183) to drive the carriage (52) to a location over the firstpanel (8) at which a second one of the pair of drive elements (184) canengage the second track (168) of the second frame (163). The second oneof the pair of drive elements (184) can operably engage the second track(168) to draw the carriage (52) over the distance between the first andsecond frames (6)(163).

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 1 and 10, an embodiment including afirst and second frame (6)(163) can further include a track bridge (170)disposed to span the distance between the first and second tracks(39)(168). The track bridge (170) can be configured to engage a driveelement (75) to move the carriage (52) between the first track (39) andthe second track (168).

As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts ofthe present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways. Theinvention involves numerous and varied embodiments of a panelmaintenance system and methods for making and using such panelmaintenance system including the best mode.

As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the inventiondisclosed by the description or shown in the figures or tablesaccompanying this application are not intended to be limiting, butrather exemplary of the numerous and varied embodiments genericallyencompassed by the invention or equivalents encompassed with respect toany particular element thereof. In addition, the specific description ofa single embodiment or element of the invention may not explicitlydescribe all embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives areimplicitly disclosed by the description and figures.

It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or each stepof a method may be described by an apparatus term or method term. Suchterms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the implicitlybroad coverage to which this invention is entitled. As but one example,it should be understood that all steps of a method may be disclosed asan action, a means for taking that action, or as an element which causesthat action. Similarly, each element of an apparatus may be disclosed asthe physical element or the action which that physical elementfacilitates. As but one example, the disclosure of a “wiper” should beunderstood to encompass disclosure of the act of “wiping”— whetherexplicitly discussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectivelydisclosure of the act of “wiping”, such a disclosure should beunderstood to encompass disclosure of a “wiper” and even a “means fordoor wiping.” Such alternative terms for each element or step are to beunderstood to be explicitly included in the description.

In addition, as to each term used it should be understood that unlessits utilization in this application is inconsistent with suchinterpretation, common dictionary definitions should be understood to beincluded in the description for each term as contained in the RandomHouse Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, second edition, each definitionhereby incorporated by reference.

All numeric values herein are assumed to be modified by the term“about”, whether or not explicitly indicated. For the purposes of thepresent invention, ranges may be expressed as from “about” oneparticular value to “about” another particular value. When such a rangeis expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular valueto the other particular value. The recitation of numerical ranges byendpoints includes all the numeric values subsumed within that range. Anumerical range of one to five includes for example the numeric values1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, and so forth. It will be furtherunderstood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant bothin relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the otherendpoint. When a value is expressed as an approximation by use of theantecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular valueforms another embodiment. The term “about” generally refers to a rangeof numeric values that one of skill in the art would consider equivalentto the recited numeric value or having the same function or result.Similarly, the antecedent “substantially” means largely, but not wholly,the same form, manner or degree and the particular element will have arange of configurations as a person of ordinary skill in the art wouldconsider as having the same function or result. When a particularelement is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent“substantially,” it will be understood that the particular element formsanother embodiment.

Moreover, for the purposes of the present invention, the term “a” or“an” entity refers to one or more of that entity unless otherwiselimited. As such, the terms “a” or “an”, “one or more” and “at leastone” can be used interchangeably herein.

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at least: i) eachof the reciprocally telescoping door stops herein disclosed anddescribed, ii) the related methods disclosed and described, iii)similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of thesedevices and methods, iv) those alternative embodiments which accomplisheach of the functions shown, disclosed, or described, v) thosealternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the functionsshown as are implicit to accomplish that which is disclosed anddescribed, vi) each feature, component, and step shown as separate andindependent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced by the varioussystems or components disclosed, viii) the resulting products producedby such systems or components, ix) methods and apparatuses substantiallyas described hereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanyingexamples, x) the various combinations and permutations of each of theprevious elements disclosed.

The background section of this patent application provides a statementof the field of endeavor to which the invention pertains. This sectionmay also incorporate or contain paraphrasing of certain United Statespatents, patent applications, publications, or subject matter of theclaimed invention useful in relating information, problems, or concernsabout the state of technology to which the invention is drawn toward. Itis not intended that any United States patent, patent application,publication, statement or other information cited or incorporated hereinbe interpreted, construed or deemed to be admitted as prior art withrespect to the invention.

The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are herebyincorporated by reference as part of this description of the invention,and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or aportion of such incorporated content of such claims as additionaldescription to support any of or all of the claims or any element orcomponent thereof, and the applicant further expressly reserves theright to move any portion of or all of the incorporated content of suchclaims or any element or component thereof from the description into theclaims or vice-versa as necessary to define the matter for whichprotection is sought by this application or by any subsequentapplication or continuation, division, or continuation-in-partapplication thereof, or to obtain any benefit of, reduction in feespursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws, rules, or regulations ofany country or treaty, and such content incorporated by reference shallsurvive during the entire pendency of this application including anysubsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in-part applicationthereof or any reissue or extension thereon.

Additionally, the claims set forth in this specification, if any, arefurther intended to describe the metes and bounds of a limited number ofthe preferred embodiments of the invention and are not to be construedas the broadest embodiment of the invention or a complete listing ofembodiments of the invention that may be claimed. The applicant does notwaive any right to develop further claims based upon the description setforth above as a part of any continuation, division, orcontinuation-in-part, or similar application.

I claim:
 1. A panel maintenance system, comprising: a panel maintenanceassembly having a drive element which moves said panel maintenanceassembly over a panel; a fluid outlet coupled to said panel maintenanceassembly, said fluid outlet adapted to deliver an amount of fluid ontosaid first panel; and a fluid collection element coupled to said panelmaintenance assembly, said fluid collection element configured tocollect said amount of fluid delivered onto said first panel; a dockingstation to which said panel maintenance assembly docks, said dockingstation and said panel maintenance assembly correspondingly includingmatable portions of a fluid supply connector or matable portions of apower supply connector.
 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising afirst blade coupled to said panel maintenance assembly, said first bladeextending from said panel maintenance assembly to contact said firstpanel.
 3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a fluid reservoircoupled to said panel maintenance assembly, said fluid reservoir coupledto said fluid outlet assembly to deliver an amount of fluid onto saidfirst panel.
 4. The system of claim 3, further comprising a first fluidpump coupled to said fluid reservoir, said fluid pump operable todeliver said amount of fluid to said fluid outlet.
 5. The system ofclaim 4, further comprising a second fluid pump, said second fluid pumpoperable to return said amount of fluid collected by said fluidcollection element to said fluid reservoir.
 6. The system of claim 2,further comprising a second blade coupled to said panel maintenanceassembly, said second blade extending from said panel maintenanceassembly to contact said first panel at a distance from said firstblade, said fluid outlet located to deliver said amount of fluid ontosaid first panel in a blade bounded passage between said first andsecond blades.
 7. The system of claim 5, further comprising arechargeable power source coupled to said panel maintenance assembly,said rechargeable power source electrically coupled to one or more ofsaid driver, said first fluid pump, and said second fluid pump.
 8. Thesystem of claim 7, further comprising a fluid level sensor fluidiclycoupled to said fluid reservoir, said fluid level sensor sensing a fluidlevel of said amount of fluid in said fluid reservoir.
 9. The system ofclaim 8, further comprising a panel sensor coupled to said panelmaintenance assembly, said panel sensor configured to sense an amount oflight transmissivity of said first panel or an amount of lightreflectivity of said first panel, said panel sensor generating a panelsensor signal that varies based on said amount of light transmissivityor light reflectivity of said first panel.
 10. The system of claim 9,further comprising a controller including a processor coupled to anon-transitory computer readable media containing a panel maintenanceprogram executable to control said driver to generate movement of saidpanel maintenance assembly over said panel between sensed first andsecond end limits.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein said panelmaintenance program is further executable to control said driver togenerate movement of said panel maintenance assembly over said panelbased on comparison of an amount of elapsed time to an elapsed timethreshold value.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein said panelmaintenance program is further executable to control said driver togenerate movement of said panel maintenance assembly over said panelbased on comparison of said light transmissivity value or said lightreflectivity value to pre-selected light transmissivity threshold valueor light reflectivity threshold value, wherein exceeding said lighttransmissivity threshold value or said light reflectivity thresholdvalue causes movement of said panel maintenance assembly over said firstpanel.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein said panel maintenanceprogram is further executable to operate said first fluid pump todeliver said amount of fluid through said fluid outlet onto said firstpanel upon occurrence of said light transmissivity value or said lightreflectivity value exceeding said light transmissivity threshold valueor said light reflectivity threshold value.
 14. The system of claim 13,wherein said panel maintenance program is further executable toperiodically determine said amount of fluid remaining in said fluidreservoir.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein said panel maintenanceprogram is further executable to periodically determine an amount ofenergy remaining in said power source.
 16. The system of claim 1,further comprising a controller including a processor coupled to anon-transitory computer readable media containing a panel maintenanceprogram executable to dock said panel maintenance assembly with saiddocking station based on occurrence of an energy level remaining in saidpower source exceeding an energy level threshold or based on occurrenceof a fluid level remaining in said fluid reservoir exceeding a fluidlevel threshold value.